Katelyn Ohashi’s journey from a gymnastics prodigy to a social media sensation has been anything but typical. Best known for her perfect 10 floor routine that went viral in 2019, Ohashi has used her newfound fame to raise awareness about the pressures and challenges faced by gymnasts, as well as the importance of body positivity and mental health. Despite her remarkable success in the sport, her path has been paved with struggles, injuries, body image issues, and criticism, all of which she has openly discussed in hopes of inspiring others.
From Early Fame to Body Shaming: A Rollercoaster Journey
Katelyn Ohashi’s fame skyrocketed after her flawless floor routine at the 2019 NCAA Gymnastics Championships, where she scored a perfect 10. The performance, set to a medley of Beyoncé and Tina Turner songs, became an instant sensation, with the video amassing over 118 million views online. But while the world was enamored with her graceful and energetic performance, the 32-year-old gymnast’s rise to fame came with its own set of difficulties.
As Ohashi’s viral video gained global attention, she was met with overwhelming praise and admiration. However, she also faced harsh criticism and body-shaming comments from some on social media. “I feel like, a lot of times, I’ve felt alone when I was going through all this stuff,” Ohashi explained in an interview. The instant visibility she gained as a result of her viral routine subjected her to scrutiny about her appearance, which led to feelings of isolation.
Despite the many positive messages she received from fans, including those who resonated with her body-positive message, Ohashi struggled with the darker side of fame. She realized that while social media often presents a curated version of someone’s life, there are many layers to a person’s experiences that are not always visible. “Social media portrays one side of a person that they don’t mind you seeing, but the other parts are hidden and not so openly talked about,” she said.
Advocating for Body Positivity and Mental Health Awareness
While many gymnasts face body-image issues due to the extreme physical demands of the sport, Ohashi became one of the most vocal athletes to speak out about the pressure to maintain a certain body type. She is not alone in her struggle; fellow athletes have also faced similar challenges. In addition to dealing with body-shaming, Ohashi has also shared her experience with rare health conditions, including ulcerative colitis and a skin disease, which she has faced since a young age.
In 2019, Ohashi co-authored a blog with her friend Maria Caire, discussing the body-image issues that athletes endure. “I would definitely say I am aware, because I receive messages and it’s so heartwarming to hear people reaching out,” Ohashi reflected. The blog became a platform for her to share personal experiences, offering insight into the often-hidden challenges athletes face both physically and emotionally.
Ohashi’s transparency about her struggles has helped her connect with a wide audience, and she continues to receive messages of support from fans who appreciate her body-positive energy. She mentioned how, just last week, she had a FaceTime conversation with a young girl who had gone through similar injuries and struggles. “To let her know from an early age that you don’t have to be validated by your score or one thing that you do – you’re a human being, and there’s so much that we have to offer the world,” Ohashi shared. This exchange reflected the positive impact she has on others, emphasizing the importance of self-worth beyond physical achievements.
Overcoming Injuries and Finding New Passion in Gymnastics
Ohashi’s gymnastics career has been filled with both triumph and adversity. By the age of 15, she had already achieved great success, beating gymnasts like Simone Biles at the American Cup. However, the intense physical demands of the sport took a toll on her body. At the height of her career, Ohashi was diagnosed with multiple injuries, including a fractured back and torn shoulders. Despite this, she continued to compete, ignoring the advice of medical professionals, including Larry Nassar, who was later convicted of sexual abuse. After undergoing surgery to treat her injuries, Ohashi faced an uncertain future in gymnastics.
Following her surgery and a year-long break from the sport, Ohashi realized that elite gymnastics was no longer a viable path for her body. However, she found a new passion for gymnastics when she joined the UCLA Bruins gymnastics team, where she rediscovered her love for the sport in a less demanding environment. UCLA offered Ohashi a chance to continue gymnastics without the same pressures of elite competition, and it was there that she would go on to earn her perfect 10 score, which ultimately gained her widespread recognition.
A Platform for Change: Using Fame for a Greater Purpose
Ohashi’s fame has afforded her the opportunity to speak out on behalf of others who face body-image issues and mental health struggles. With her social media presence and her platform as a former elite gymnast, she has become a role model for young athletes and individuals worldwide who are dealing with their own challenges. Her honesty about her past struggles, from battling body-image issues to overcoming injuries, has made her a beacon of hope for those who feel they are not “normal” or “perfect.”
In a broader context, Ohashi has also addressed the issue of mental health within sports. Gymnastics, like many competitive sports, places immense pressure on athletes to succeed, often at the expense of their physical and mental well-being. Through her advocacy, Ohashi encourages athletes and individuals to prioritize their mental health and well-being over external pressures, emphasizing the importance of self-care and self-acceptance.
A New Era for Gymnastics and Athlete Advocacy
As gymnastics evolves, Ohashi’s voice and her commitment to athlete advocacy are making a significant impact. In light of the Larry Nassar scandal and other controversies surrounding the sport, Ohashi believes that the future of gymnastics lies in prioritizing the well-being of athletes. She has called for improved communication between athletes, coaches, and medical professionals, stressing the importance of listening to athletes’ concerns and creating a supportive environment that fosters both physical and emotional health.
Ohashi’s commitment to making gymnastics a safer and more inclusive sport for everyone reflects a broader movement within athletics to advocate for athlete voices and well-being. She has proven that it is possible to use fame to inspire positive change and raise awareness about important issues, including body image, mental health, and injury prevention.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Resilience and Advocacy
Katelyn Ohashi’s journey has been one of resilience, self-discovery, and advocacy. Despite facing body-shaming, injuries, and personal challenges, she has used her platform to help others who may be going through similar struggles. Her story serves as a reminder that true success lies not in achieving perfection, but in embracing one’s authentic self and advocating for positive change.
As Ohashi continues to inspire others, her legacy will undoubtedly be defined by her dedication to empowering athletes, promoting body positivity, and speaking out for mental health. Her journey is a testament to the power of resilience, and her influence extends far beyond gymnastics, leaving a lasting impact on individuals and communities around the world.
